Mold, a type of fungi, thrives in moist conditions. Homeowners often discover mold growing on shady areas of an outdoor deck or on bathroom tile and grout. However, the discovery of basement mold is most common. Fortunately, mold can be prevented and removed by mold remediation experts at ServiceMaster of Cobb.
Common Causes of Basement Mold
Mold flourishes in most basement conditions. A basement should not smell damp, musty or unpleasant. Musty smells are from mold. Mold requires moisture to grow and prospers in humid conditions where air circulation is minimal. Mold cannot grow in freezing conditions or under ultraviolet light.
The most common causes of basement mold include:
- A leaking pipe
- Flood/water damage
- Foundation cracks leaking moisture into space
- Inadequate drainage away from the foundation
- Poor ventilation and high humidity
- Poorly sealed/insulated windows
How to Prevent Basement Mold
1. Eliminate the growing mold.
2. Increase basement ventilation and decrease humidity with running fans and a dehumidifier.
3. Determine the cause of the moisture.
- Has a pipe leaked?
- Are there foundation cracks allowing moisture in?
- Is there condensation on the windows?
- Has the basement flooded recently during a storm?
4. Repair the issue to eliminate further water damage.
How to Remove Basement Mold
Depending on the extent of the mold issue, removal may be as simple as a thorough cleaning or more complex requiring the expertise of the ServiceMaster of Cobb professionals.
Mold growth limited to individual items such as cardboard storage boxes is simple. Transfer the items in the boxes to water-proof containers and dispose of the moldy cardboard. Locate and eliminate the source of the basement's moisture, increase the ventilation and if needed, run a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low.
Safety Tips
- Always wear protective gloves and goggles when working with bleach or other cleaners.
- Always check the manufacturer's label before using bleach on a fabric.
- Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
- Remove mold from items like clothing, blankets and other fabrics by thoroughly washing and drying. To remove the moldy smell completely, bleach or a non-chlorine bleach product may be required.
- Wet, moldy carpet/rugs and upholstered furniture require professional cleaning or possibly removal.
Contact ServiceMaster of Cobb for Professional Mold Remediation
The professionals at ServiceMaster of Cobb safely and effectively clean and restore personal items affected by water damage and mold, including books, documents, artwork and more.
ServiceMaster of Cobb offers complete mold remediation services to homes and businesses in Georgia and Tennessee. Since 1996, we have delivered a prompt and professional response rate to any mold damage incident. Our mold remediation team removes mold sources, cleans affected surfaces and materials, recreates the conditions of penetration with appropriate counteractants or neutralizers, and seals restorable surfaces as necessary.
We are an IICRC-certified firm with offices in Georgia and Tennessee.
To schedule an appointment, connect with us online or call ServiceMaster of Cobb today!
Georgia: (678) 264-3310
Tennessee: (423) 220-4482
Commercial Cleaning Services: (678) 909-1078